Psychiatrists in Cedar, IA
![Photo of Omoye Ehizuelen, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f99b5eda-ec94-43ee-8483-fe27e056dfd7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Omoye Ehizuelen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedar, IA 52543 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients 18 & up, anywhere in Washington State, Iowa and New Mexico. Life gets busy, as a working professional, you are doing your best, however things can get pretty overwhelming and you may need some additional support. I am here to help.
Accepting new patients 18 & up, anywhere in Washington State, Iowa and New Mexico. Life gets busy, as a working professional, you are doing your best, however things can get pretty overwhelming and you may need some additional support. I am here to help.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Jennifer C Melly, APRN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/852e9add-3328-4db3-8df0-51963bf41e91/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer C Melly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Johnston, IA 50131
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Provider, who provides mental health care to all ages. I have extensive experience working in the acute inpatient and outpatient for over 15 years. I partner with you to improve mental health using a holistic approach which includes assessment, psychoeducation, psychopharmacology, and psychotherapy to improve symptomology of mental illness. I am committed to serving my clients with compassion, open communication, and kindness in a nonjudgmental I look forward to helping patients through their mental health journey and collaborate with the patient to provide the best care possible.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Provider, who provides mental health care to all ages. I have extensive experience working in the acute inpatient and outpatient for over 15 years. I partner with you to improve mental health using a holistic approach which includes assessment, psychoeducation, psychopharmacology, and psychotherapy to improve symptomology of mental illness. I am committed to serving my clients with compassion, open communication, and kindness in a nonjudgmental I look forward to helping patients through their mental health journey and collaborate with the patient to provide the best care possible.
![Photo of Darnelle Scott - Scott Psychiatric Consultants, PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af72d16f-0537-471e-ac21-a97f1f0976b4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Scott Psychiatric Consultants, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, IA 50703 (Online Only)
My name is Darnelle, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am a provider who listens to and supports every patient. When life brings you troubles, I support you every step of the way. Disclaimer: I do not prescribe controlled substances
My name is Darnelle, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am a provider who listens to and supports every patient. When life brings you troubles, I support you every step of the way. Disclaimer: I do not prescribe controlled substances
![Photo of Andrew Merande - Baraka Behavioral Health (BBH), LLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e28bd1c9-1f89-4bbf-978c-6504a32aa564/3/320x400.jpeg)
Baraka Behavioral Health (BBH), LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
I am board certified psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric services includes evaluations, diagnosis, and psychiatric medication management for such conditions as depression, personality disorders, anxiety, bipolar, and attention deficit disorders among others for children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics. At BBS, you are guaranteed of a highly skilled and knowledgeable Practitioner, from the confines of your home, virtually, through your smartphone, and or computer. You are at the center, and You matter!
I am board certified psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric services includes evaluations, diagnosis, and psychiatric medication management for such conditions as depression, personality disorders, anxiety, bipolar, and attention deficit disorders among others for children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics. At BBS, you are guaranteed of a highly skilled and knowledgeable Practitioner, from the confines of your home, virtually, through your smartphone, and or computer. You are at the center, and You matter!
![Photo of Kelsey Andresen, ARNP, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37b838b8-c904-441c-a6b8-cd5c6aa880b4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsey Andresen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023 (Online Only)
Kelsey believes it is important to create an individualized plan of care that integrates client involvement, evidence-based practices, and interprofessional collaboration. Kelsey is a board certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has worked in the mental health field since 2009. Her background includes experience in both inpatient and outpatient care. Kelsey earned her Bachelor's in Kinesiology from Iowa State University and her Master of Science in Nursing from Allen College.
Kelsey believes it is important to create an individualized plan of care that integrates client involvement, evidence-based practices, and interprofessional collaboration. Kelsey is a board certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has worked in the mental health field since 2009. Her background includes experience in both inpatient and outpatient care. Kelsey earned her Bachelor's in Kinesiology from Iowa State University and her Master of Science in Nursing from Allen College.
![Photo of Amber Arthurs, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6aa5ff3-0342-4bd8-a40b-d33364e803aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amber is focused on developing a partnership with her clients by providing patient-centered care. She believes it is important to take the time to listen to her clients’ concerns and health goals to develop an optimal treatment plan. Amber’s style of practice includes traditional medicine, as well as natural treatments including but not limited to: vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification, nutrition, exercise, and stress management
Amber is focused on developing a partnership with her clients by providing patient-centered care. She believes it is important to take the time to listen to her clients’ concerns and health goals to develop an optimal treatment plan. Amber’s style of practice includes traditional medicine, as well as natural treatments including but not limited to: vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification, nutrition, exercise, and stress management
![Photo of Ann Barbaro, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af8b9c57-5ec0-478d-a43c-b9f80ed3c0cb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ann Barbaro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients! I consider myself lucky to work in health care at a time when mental health diagnoses are becoming more accepted and better understood in our culture. I firmly believe that optimal health cannot be attained without giving adequate attention to mental health. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to advocate for patients and direct their care with understanding and compassion. My hope is that the care I provide will ease my patients’ struggles and empower them to live to the fullest degree.
Accepting New Patients! I consider myself lucky to work in health care at a time when mental health diagnoses are becoming more accepted and better understood in our culture. I firmly believe that optimal health cannot be attained without giving adequate attention to mental health. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to advocate for patients and direct their care with understanding and compassion. My hope is that the care I provide will ease my patients’ struggles and empower them to live to the fullest degree.
![Photo of Michelle Kubik, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1519d604-d3fb-489d-b0ee-d9272a67dbad/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Kubik is a licensed Physician Assistant (PA-C) and provides psychiatric care and medication management at Kingdom Counseling. Michelle completed her undergraduate degree at Central College, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry. She graduated from Des Moines University in 2015 with her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. Michelle worked as a provider in primary care for seven years where she found her passion caring for those struggling with their mental health.
Michelle Kubik is a licensed Physician Assistant (PA-C) and provides psychiatric care and medication management at Kingdom Counseling. Michelle completed her undergraduate degree at Central College, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry. She graduated from Des Moines University in 2015 with her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. Michelle worked as a provider in primary care for seven years where she found her passion caring for those struggling with their mental health.
![Photo of Kelsey Lamb, MSN, ARNP, PMHNBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bebbc925-a50a-424f-9f94-3cc9f7d0a43c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hey there! I’m Kelsey Lamb, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a passion for helping people navigate life’s challenges. I’ve been in the mental health profession since 2011 and practicing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2017. For the past five years, I’ve worked for an organization that’s helped me grow and gain confidence in ways I never imagined when I first started. Now, I’m thrilled to embark on a new journey with Prism Psychiatric Group, where I’ll bring along all the skills and experiences I’ve gathered along the way. Let me tell you a bit about my life outside the office!
Hey there! I’m Kelsey Lamb, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a passion for helping people navigate life’s challenges. I’ve been in the mental health profession since 2011 and practicing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2017. For the past five years, I’ve worked for an organization that’s helped me grow and gain confidence in ways I never imagined when I first started. Now, I’m thrilled to embark on a new journey with Prism Psychiatric Group, where I’ll bring along all the skills and experiences I’ve gathered along the way. Let me tell you a bit about my life outside the office!
![Photo of Jenna Z Berendzen, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae249659-248d-405e-832c-4a20ddde755b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jenna Z Berendzen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
Jenna has extensive practice experience in psychiatry and reproductive health has helped Jenna gain knowledge and expertise in how hormones and life-changes, such as pregnancy, postpartum and menopause, play a role in one's mental health. She has post-graduate training in perinatal mental health including the 12-hour post-graduate PPD training and the Master Clinician Summit at the Postpartum Stress Center. She helped to found, and is a former board member of, the Iowa chapter of Postpartum Support International.
Jenna has extensive practice experience in psychiatry and reproductive health has helped Jenna gain knowledge and expertise in how hormones and life-changes, such as pregnancy, postpartum and menopause, play a role in one's mental health. She has post-graduate training in perinatal mental health including the 12-hour post-graduate PPD training and the Master Clinician Summit at the Postpartum Stress Center. She helped to found, and is a former board member of, the Iowa chapter of Postpartum Support International.
![Photo of Chelsea Greer, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b2da6dd-7820-4f8f-8fb8-995dfffa62b8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chelsea Greer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Life can be hard. Finding mental health support can be even harder! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 14 years of experience working in mental health- both inpatient and outpatient clinical experience. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional intensity, postpartum/prepartum issues, concentration/focus, sleep issues, etc., and would like to be evaluated for medication therapy to help you through, I am here to help. Change doesn't happen without change. Today is the day.
Life can be hard. Finding mental health support can be even harder! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 14 years of experience working in mental health- both inpatient and outpatient clinical experience. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional intensity, postpartum/prepartum issues, concentration/focus, sleep issues, etc., and would like to be evaluated for medication therapy to help you through, I am here to help. Change doesn't happen without change. Today is the day.
![Photo of Patty Ferlitsch, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/647a26ca-fa22-4c29-858a-9fb725576142/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and am accepting new clients ages 18+. I am passionate about whole body wellness and preventative care. My priority is to provide seamless collaborative care for each patient I treat. I believe it is essential to treat the patient and not just the disorder. I use an integrative approach to understanding one's biological, psychological, and social needs. I feel a patient- centered therapeutic approach is crucial to help patients' reach their goals.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and am accepting new clients ages 18+. I am passionate about whole body wellness and preventative care. My priority is to provide seamless collaborative care for each patient I treat. I believe it is essential to treat the patient and not just the disorder. I use an integrative approach to understanding one's biological, psychological, and social needs. I feel a patient- centered therapeutic approach is crucial to help patients' reach their goals.
![Photo of Germaine Mbuh, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0f07ba7-bf05-46c9-8b17-ea31b9c7bcb1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Germaine Mbuh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving children, adults and the senior population. Professionally, I have worked in diverse roles in numerous care settings. Throughout these years of experience, I have faced numerous situations where understanding and recognizing a patient’s mental health was essential. In these care situations, I developed an indomitable passion for mental health, ultimately leading me to pursue a master’s degree in nursing to obtain my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management, psychoeducation, and psychiatric evaluations.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving children, adults and the senior population. Professionally, I have worked in diverse roles in numerous care settings. Throughout these years of experience, I have faced numerous situations where understanding and recognizing a patient’s mental health was essential. In these care situations, I developed an indomitable passion for mental health, ultimately leading me to pursue a master’s degree in nursing to obtain my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management, psychoeducation, and psychiatric evaluations.
![Photo of Quentin Chambers - Alpha Allied Mental Health Services (AMS), PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27e996ec-fc65-4e38-a98b-2cf9ef4514fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alpha Allied Mental Health Services (AMS)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the states of Iowa and Missouri. I have full practice authority in the state of Iowa, I am accepting new patients in Iowa and Missouri. I practice psychiatry by assessing biological, psychological and social aspects of each patient I care for, to deliver optimal mental health. I take insurance in Missouri and Iowa. I prescribe a full range of psychotropic medications for genuine mental health disorders. We now have an additional provider that is accepting new patients. Give us a call.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the states of Iowa and Missouri. I have full practice authority in the state of Iowa, I am accepting new patients in Iowa and Missouri. I practice psychiatry by assessing biological, psychological and social aspects of each patient I care for, to deliver optimal mental health. I take insurance in Missouri and Iowa. I prescribe a full range of psychotropic medications for genuine mental health disorders. We now have an additional provider that is accepting new patients. Give us a call.
![Photo of Sarah Schuller, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/810f6a01-6dea-4fbf-bf1d-c8a2757acd4c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Schuller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
Waitlist for new clients
I have provided assessment and skilled intervention with patients and families for more than 25 years. I have extensive experience working in the acute inpatient, outpatient, and in-homes settings, and have recently joined the Medication Management Team at Central Iowa Psychological Services. Serving patient ages 5-adulthood to help meet personalized mental health goals.
I have provided assessment and skilled intervention with patients and families for more than 25 years. I have extensive experience working in the acute inpatient, outpatient, and in-homes settings, and have recently joined the Medication Management Team at Central Iowa Psychological Services. Serving patient ages 5-adulthood to help meet personalized mental health goals.
![Photo of Elizabeth Brake - Bliss Psychiatry, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bc72d31-5cd1-4021-b5c1-88357b452de6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bliss Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309 (Online Only)
Accepting NEW patients, can get new patients in within a week! Telemedicine, treating most psychiatric conditions. We also offer personalized ADHD diagnosis and treatment, treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, as well as some addiction and substance abuse! We accept most insurances and have discount self pay options. We offer comprehensive assessments and customized treatment plans, we work hard to improve your quality of life.
Accepting NEW patients, can get new patients in within a week! Telemedicine, treating most psychiatric conditions. We also offer personalized ADHD diagnosis and treatment, treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, as well as some addiction and substance abuse! We accept most insurances and have discount self pay options. We offer comprehensive assessments and customized treatment plans, we work hard to improve your quality of life.
![Photo of Walnut Creek Psychiatry - Walnut Creek Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ec6af19-a966-43a1-8fbe-b4583eb039cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Walnut Creek Psychiatry is deeply committed to providing individuals with exceptional psychiatric care. We specialize in your mental well-being by relying on our expertise to provide the highest quality of psychiatric care with an emphasis on individual uniqueness. We treat ages 4 through older adults for illnesses such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral issues, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and others. We provide a safe environment, empathetic listening skills, and diverse services to meet the individual needs of our clients. Medical and therapy services are provided in offices or through telehealth across Iowa.
Walnut Creek Psychiatry is deeply committed to providing individuals with exceptional psychiatric care. We specialize in your mental well-being by relying on our expertise to provide the highest quality of psychiatric care with an emphasis on individual uniqueness. We treat ages 4 through older adults for illnesses such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral issues, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and others. We provide a safe environment, empathetic listening skills, and diverse services to meet the individual needs of our clients. Medical and therapy services are provided in offices or through telehealth across Iowa.
![Photo of Dr. Uhunoma Osadolor - Ample Grace Psychiatry, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e993d05-cce0-4262-b7a2-8cd25cd7605b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50310
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
![Photo of Michelle Swan, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aec009d2-8fe0-4f01-b802-4fb31dc2868c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taking that first step of asking for help can be difficult, but I am here to provide support without judgment. My office is a safe space where you can be yourself — without judgement. I prioritize collaborating with you and, where appropriate, your family to create a person-centered approach to mental healthcare. As your medication prescriber, I will work with you to determine what mental health medications may help alleviate your symptoms and allow you to work towards your goals. You will have a voice and be an active participant in your mental health treatment.
Taking that first step of asking for help can be difficult, but I am here to provide support without judgment. My office is a safe space where you can be yourself — without judgement. I prioritize collaborating with you and, where appropriate, your family to create a person-centered approach to mental healthcare. As your medication prescriber, I will work with you to determine what mental health medications may help alleviate your symptoms and allow you to work towards your goals. You will have a voice and be an active participant in your mental health treatment.
![Photo of Nick Stull - Depression Treatment (TMS / Esketamine treatment) , FPMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98c4153e-e9cc-4bca-8669-5747cba179e4/1/320x400.png)
Depression Treatment (TMS / Esketamine treatment)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMNP
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010
Is depression still controlling your life? If you have tried SSRIs and SSNIs but continue to struggle with depression symptoms, adding a course of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) may help. TMS is FDA cleared for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder, Smoking Sensation and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Esketamine Nasal Spray is also a proven treatment option for depression – especially Treatment Resistant Depression (TRD) and Major Depressive Disorder with suicidal ideation (MDSI). Central Iowa Psychological Services is a certified Spravato® treatment center. Contact us today to book a consultation.
Is depression still controlling your life? If you have tried SSRIs and SSNIs but continue to struggle with depression symptoms, adding a course of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) may help. TMS is FDA cleared for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder, Smoking Sensation and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Esketamine Nasal Spray is also a proven treatment option for depression – especially Treatment Resistant Depression (TRD) and Major Depressive Disorder with suicidal ideation (MDSI). Central Iowa Psychological Services is a certified Spravato® treatment center. Contact us today to book a consultation.
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Cedar, IA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Cedar, IA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Alcohol Use |
100% | Medication Management |
100% | Racial Identity |
100% | Stress |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Cedar, IA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Cedar?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.